Police, security company warn of potential sales scam

Police and security companies are warning homeowners about solicitors in the metro who may be trying to obtain money and personal information from local residents.

Local police departments have received several calls in recent days about unsolicited phone calls and home visits from people who offering security system upgrades and services.

Lt. Lynn Aswegan with the Johnston Police Department said law enforcement officials around the metro have been receiving similar reports, and none of the agencies have been able to confirm whether those involved are affiliated with a legitimate company.

That’s why Aswegan said it is important for people to use caution when they receive unsolicited service offers.

“There’s a possibility they could be from a legitimate business, but there’s just as strong a possibility it could be a scam,” he said.

All of the reports in Johnston have been for unsolicited phone calls. In other metro communities residents have reported people coming to their house, requesting to update their system or provide a new service.

Per Mar Security, a Davenport-based security service provider, issued a warning about the potential scams on Monday.

Those involved in such scams often misrepresent themselves as working for a well-known security company by wearing branded attire, according to the Per Mar notice. They may ask customers to sign a new contract and provide personal and banking information.

Aswegan said some people reported questions about whether they had a home security system and whether or not it was activated, which raised concerns with residents over whether the solicitors were gathering information they may use to try to break into the home later on.

At least one West Des Moines woman allowed three men to replace her ADT security system with equipment of their own, according to a police report. The men also asked for early $150 in checks and her bank account and routing numbers.

Police spoke with one of the individuals involved who argued he had not done anything wrong. The man drove a car with Utah license plates and did not have a license to solicit within West Des Moines, according to police.

Aswegan said calls made to Johnston residents were traced back to a Washington telephone number.

He said it’s important for people to use common sense when handling such solicitations.

If people are interested in doing business with the person they should hang up and call the company back at a number they know is affiliated with the actual business.

If someone is soliciting door to door, Aswegan said homeowners should first request to see the person’s solicitation permit. Such permits are issued by a number of cities throughout the metro, including Johnston and West Des Moines.

Those who suspect fraudulent sales tactics are encouraged to report them to local police and the Iowa Attorney General’s office at 515-281-5926.